Why Your Shopify Conversion Rate Is Low (6 Fixes)

Pay-by-Bank / Blog / Why Is My Shopify Conversion Rate So Low?

If your Shopify store isn’t converting, it’s not just frustrating - it’s expensive. Before diving into heatmaps and A/B tests, take a step back. This guide flips the CRO script by starting with symptoms, not solutions. We’ll help you identify the root causes of a low conversion rate, then prescribe fixes that actually move the needle.

Key Takeaways:

A low Shopify conversion rate is usually a symptom of deeper UX, trust, or traffic quality issues.
Conversion drop-offs happen most on mobile and during checkout—especially at the payment stage.
Fixes should be diagnosis-driven, not generic—optimize based on where users are leaking in the funnel.
Speed, trust signals, mobile UX, and express checkout options can significantly boost conversions.
Targeting the right audience is just as important as on-site optimization—bad traffic doesn't convert.

1. Slow Load Times

Symptom: High bounce rates within 3 seconds.

Why it matters: 70% of shoppers abandon if a site loads slowly.

Fix it: Compress images, use Shopify’s native speed tools, remove unused apps and scripts, and switch to a faster theme.

2. Poor Mobile Experience

Symptom: Mobile conversion rate is half that of desktop.

Why it matters: Over 75% of Shopify traffic is mobile.

Fix it: Use responsive, mobile-first themes, test all CTAs on small screens, simplify form fields, and eliminate unnecessary popups.

3. Lack of Trust Signals

Symptom: High product page views, low add-to-cart rates.

Why it matters: Shoppers hesitate if trust isn’t established.

Fix it: Add reviews, trust badges, return policies, live chat options, and secure checkout icons.

4. Weak Product Pages

Symptom: Lots of traffic but few clicks on ‘Add to Cart.’

Why it matters: If product pages don’t answer key questions, shoppers bounce.

Fix it: Include video demos, high-res photos, FAQs, social proof, and comparison charts if needed.

5. Confusing Checkout Flow

Symptom: High drop-off at payment step.

Why it matters: Checkout friction kills intent.

Fix it: Use express checkout options like Pay by Bank or Shop Pay, minimize fields, enable auto-fill, and reduce surprise fees.

6. Mismatched Traffic Sources

Symptom: High ad spend, low ROAS.

Why it matters: Unqualified traffic doesn’t convert.

Fix it: Reassess your targeting strategy, exclude low-intent audiences, and ensure your landing pages match ad promises.

Comparison Table: Fixes by Symptom

Symptom	Likely Cause	Suggested Fix
High bounce rate	Slow load time	Compress images, remove unused scripts, use a fast theme
Low mobile conversion	Poor mobile UX	Use mobile-first design, simplify CTAs, remove friction
Product views but no add-to-cart	Lack of trust signals	Add reviews, badges, return policy, secure checkout icons
Drop-off at payment step	Confusing checkout flow	Reduce steps, use express checkout, auto-fill fields
High ad spend, low ROAS	Unqualified traffic	Refine targeting, align ad message with landing pages

Matching each symptom with a specific cause allows for more accurate fixes—so you spend time where it counts.

Want help reducing drop-off across devices and funnel steps?

WalliD helps merchants track abandonment in real time and optimise every step of the funnel—from product view to payment.

Want to fix funnel drop-off and boost conversions with better device and traffic insights?

Talk to Our Team

Speakable Summary

This article explores why Shopify shops in the UK may experience low conversion rates. It covers six common issues—such as slow site speed, poor mobile experience, and lack of trust signals—and offers actionable fixes to improve performance and drive more sales.

How to Improve Mobile Conversion on Shopify

Use a mobile-optimised, responsive Shopify theme like Dawn or Sense.
Simplify your forms by asking only for essential information (e.g., name, email, shipping).
Ensure all buttons and CTAs are large, spaced, and thumb-friendly.
Test your store on real devices (not just emulators) for friction points.
Remove pop-ups, overlays, or banners that interrupt mobile flow.

FAQ

Why is my Shopify store getting traffic but no sales?

This often means something in your conversion funnel is broken—typically poor UX, lack of trust signals, or irrelevant traffic sources.

What is a good Shopify conversion rate?

A healthy Shopify conversion rate typically ranges from 1.5% to 3%. Top-performing stores can reach 5% or higher.

How do I track my Shopify conversion rate?

Use Shopify Analytics → Reports → Conversion Over Time. Break it down by device, traffic source, and step in the conversion funnel for more insight.

What causes high bounce rates on product pages?

Slow page speed, unclear visuals, missing trust signals, and lack of key product info like sizing or shipping can lead to immediate exits.

How can I improve my mobile conversions?

Prioritize mobile-first design, test button placement and sizes, use fast-loading themes, and minimize unnecessary popups or friction.

Should I optimize my checkout or product pages first?

Start with the part of your conversion funnel where the biggest drop-offs happen. If visitors don’t add to cart, fix product pages first.

Is paid traffic a bad idea for low-converting stores?

Not necessarily. But if your site isn't optimized, paid traffic will be expensive and ineffective. Diagnose on-site issues first.

What’s the fastest way to boost Shopify conversions?

Add trust badges, install review widgets, and use a mobile-optimized, fast theme to remove friction and reassure visitors.

Do product videos help increase conversion rate?

Yes—especially on mobile. Videos build trust, answer product questions visually, and reduce hesitations before adding to cart.

Expert Note:
Written by a Wallid Content Intern specializing in conversion rate optimization and Shopify performance. This article is part of Wallid’s ongoing series on improving eCommerce outcomes through behavioral analytics, funnel diagnostics, and UX enhancements.

Why Is My Shopify Conversion Rate So Low? (6 Reasons + Fixes)